POPPIES

Eschscholzia «Poppies» – a flowering ornamental plant of the Poppy family, reaching up to 40 cm in height. The leaves are deeply divided, grayish-green with a bluish tint, giving the plant a lacy appearance. The cup-shaped flowers, 5–10 cm in diameter, are colored in red-orange tones and bloom from June to October, ensuring abundant flowering.

The culture is easy to grow as an annual in mid-latitudes. Light, well-drained soils are preferred – sandstone or a mixture with good permeability. Sowing seeds is done in spring (in May) directly into the permanent location, with a sowing depth of 0.5–1 cm; seedlings appear in 8–10 days at a soil temperature of +18 °C. Plants are placed in rows with a spacing of 10–12 cm, and transplanting is not recommended.

Care is simple: regular watering at the roots, especially during dry periods; fertilizing with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium supports abundant flowering. Cutting off withering flower heads stimulates the formation of new buds, which last 3–4 days. The plant is resistant to cold and drought but may be affected by bean aphids, spider mites, root rot, and powdery mildew. Thanks to its bright flowers and easy planting, «Poppies» is ideal for flower beds, border strips, and rock gardens.